chancellor

An official holding a senior administrative or legal office. In government, the title is used for senior ministers, notably the Chancellor of the Exchequer, who is responsible for economic and financial policy. In universities and some political institutions, a chancellor may be a ceremonial or governing officer. In the Church of England, a diocesan chancellor is a senior lawyer appointed by the bishop to preside over the consistory court and exercise its jurisdiction, particularly over church buildings and property.